Oxidised polyacrylonitrile fibre as a flame retardant material

Abstract :

Flame retardant materials are materials that inhibit combustion thereby preventing the spread of fire. They are extensively used in fire fighting equipment, apparels worn by armed forces,security personnel and in places where there is a huge risk of explosions. Limiting oxygen index (LOI) of a material is the measure of its flame retardancy. Oxidised PAN fibre with a LOI between 45 and 55 acts as an excellent flame retardant material. The manufacturing process, properties and applications of oxidised PAN fibre are reviewed in this paper